Power adapter guide
Power adapter for China: plugs and voltage
What plug and voltage China uses, whether you need an adapter or a converter, and what to bring.
By Cara Laban, founder of TravelReddi. Last checked October 2026.
Do you need a power adapter for China?
It depends on the plugs you use at home. Where do you live?
China uses plug types A, C, I, and your plugs from the United States fit the main sockets, so you probably do not need a plug adapter. Sockets can vary, especially in older buildings, so check if you are unsure.
The voltage here is 220V, different from 120V at home. Check the label on each device. If it lists a range that includes 220V, such as 100-240V, a plug adapter is enough. If it does not, as with some hair dryers and curling irons, you would need a voltage converter, or leave it at home.
Electricity in China
- Plug types
- A, C, I
- Voltage
- 220V
- Frequency
- 50Hz
What the plugs look like
Type A: two flat parallel pins.
Type C: two round pins, often called the Europlug.
Type I: two flat pins in a V shape, usually with a grounding pin.
These are the main plug types. Sockets can vary between buildings, especially older ones. For the official list, see the IEC, World Plugs.
Good to know in China
Mixed socket types. Universal adapter strongly recommended. Most hotels have multiple outlet types.
Adapter or converter?
An adapter only changes the shape of the plug so it fits the socket. A converter also changes the voltage. Most phone, tablet and laptop chargers handle different voltages on their own, so for those you only need an adapter. Check the label on each charger for a range such as 100-240V.
What to bring
One adapter with several USB ports can charge your phone, tablet and earbuds together. Check that the one you choose fits plug types A, C, I.
These are affiliate links, and we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Common questions
What is the difference between an adapter and a converter?
An adapter only changes the shape of the plug so it fits the socket. A converter also changes the voltage. Most phone and laptop chargers handle different voltages themselves, so they only need an adapter.
How do I know if my device can handle the voltage?
Look at the small print on the charger or the back of the device. If it lists a range that includes the voltage in China, such as 100-240V, it will work with just a plug adapter. If it lists one number that does not match, you would need a converter.
Can I bring my hair dryer?
Hair dryers and other heating tools often work at only one voltage, so check the label first. If it does not cover the local voltage, using it can damage it or be unsafe. Many hotels have hair dryers, so it can be easier to leave yours at home.
Do I need one adapter per device?
No. One adapter with several USB ports can charge a phone, tablet and earbuds at once. Make sure it fits the plug type used where you are going.
Planning more for China?
Getting ready for China?
Our China guide covers entry rules, money, transport and more, matched to your passport.
Open the China guideThis guide is general information. Check the label on your own devices before you plug them in abroad.